Do you follow Prof Scott Galloway?
In his extraordinarily insightful writing are pieces of wisdom: on dealing with people and events.
The latest from his pen, Power, is, even by his exalted standards, a superb piece of writing.
What I do below is to excerpt some of what is written in there, providing a reference to our decisions and biases (and opinions of ourselves....
Partners compensate for our weaknesses, encourage us to take risks, and (in a healthy relationship) have the strength to tell us when we’re doing something wrong, unfair, or just plain stupid. Good partners protect you from others; great partners protect you from yourself. Everyone needs counterweights. Indeed, the more weight you carry, the more you need others to balance you. Some of the most valuable advice I get isn’t about what to do, but what not to do. I’ve done so many dumb things in my life. But a number of 15-car-pile-ups have been averted because someone said, “Hey, maybe … don’t.”
There is a crucial, crucial distinction here: between difference of opinion and conflict. Many believe (and teach) that conflict is inevitable. It is not. Differences of opinion are inevitable and, if you keep time aside to listen with respect, what is guaranteed is this: learning. I promise you, I believe in this.
Scott:
Some entrepreneurs achieve enormous success within this system, balancing leadership and consensus. And with great success comes great power — the power to stop listening. Which often results in a fall from grace and loss of power.
...and power dulls you to risk...a drug that downplays costs and magnifies rewards. People with power are psychologically more inclined to act on their instincts than those without it.
So, how do we protect ourselves from, well, ourselves?
By creating a system of checks or 'guardrails', as he calls them. Read on for a fuller education.....
